BOEM Seeks Comments on Renewable Energy Auction Process

Workshop scheduled to discuss proposed offshore wind leasing formats

12-02-2011 WASHINGTON

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is
seeking comments on proposed lease sale auction procedures designed specifically
to meet the needs of offshore wind development on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS)
as part of the Secretary of the Interior’s “Smart from the Start” initiative.
Based on its own research and an auction study commissioned by the bureau, BOEM
is considering several auction potential formats for use in a variety of
circumstances.

“We are evaluating several possible auction formats designed to promote offshore
wind development by efficiently allocating renewable energy leases while
ensuring that the United States receives a fair return,” said BOEM Director
Tommy P. Beaudreau. “This is an opportunity for the public to provide input into
the proposed set of auction formats.”

The Auction Format Information Request that BOEM is releasing describes a number
of potential formats that may be used for offshore wind lease sales. The
specific format selected for each sale area would likely vary based on the
specific characteristics of that sale. For example, BOEM may use a different
auction format in instances where the bureau would issue only one lease than it
would when issuing multiple leases. The information request is available in the
Federal Register:
http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/public-inspection/index.html .

All written comments received will be made available to the public and
considered during preparation of Proposed Sale Notices pertaining to the
competitive leasing of OCS lands to support the development of offshore wind
energy resources.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) manages the exploration and
development of the nation's offshore resources. The Bureau seeks to balance
economic development, energy independence and environmental protection through
oil and gas leases, renewable energy development and environmental reviews and
studies.